Brand Name(s):

Keytruda

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

This medicine is not right for everyone. You should not receive it if you had an allergic reaction to pembrolizumab, or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

How to Use This Medicine:

Injectable

Your doctor will prescribe your dose and schedule. This medicine is given through a needle placed in a vein. It must be given slowly, so the needle will have to stay in place for at least 30 minutes.

You will receive this medicine while you are in a hospital or cancer treatment center. A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this medicine.

This medicine should come with a Medication Guide. Ask your pharmacist for a copy if you do not have one.

Missed dose: This medicine needs to be given on a fixed schedule. If you miss a dose, call your doctor, home health caregiver, or treatment clinic for instructions.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

It is not safe to take this medicine during pregnancy. It could harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor right away if you become pregnant. Use an effective form of birth control while you are receiving this medicine and for at least 4 months after your last dose.

Do not breastfeed while you are receiving this medicine and for 4 months after the last dose.

Tell your doctor if you have liver disease, diabetes, lung disease, or immune system problems. Tell your doctor if you have received an organ transplant (including kidney or liver transplant).

This medicine may cause the following problems:

Pneumonitis (lung problems)

Colitis (swelling of the colon), which might damage your digestive system

Hepatitis (swelling of the liver)

Adrenal, pituitary, or thyroid gland problems

Changes in blood sugar levels

Kidney problems, which could lead to kidney failure

Serious skin reactions

Increased risk of possible organ transplant rejection

Infusion reactions, which could be severe

Your doctor will do lab tests at regular visits to check on the effects of this medicine. Keep all appointments.

Increased hunger or thirst, dry mouth, sweating, changes in how much or how often you urinate

Joint or muscle pain

Lightheadedness, dizziness, fainting

Unusual headaches, tiredness, weight changes, feeling cold

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

Constipation

Decreased appetite

Pain, itching, burning, swelling, or a lump under your skin where the needle is placed

Sores or white patches on your lips, mouth, or throat

Weight loss

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088

Last Updated: 5/1/2020

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